Cardio Command

Cardio Command is a heart-rate-controlled fitness game designed specifically for Apple Watch. It turns cardio interval training into a structured experience where the user's real-time pulse drives an on-screen avatar climbing a mountain while staying inside a target heart-rate zone. The app offers five mountains, eleven interval programs of varying lengths, and thirty-five badges. It follows a free-to-start pricing model with no subscription.

The app uses a one-time purchase model where the free version includes Grouse Mountain and the Summit Expedition program, while Cardio Command Pro costs $3.99 once to unlock the remaining four mountains, all eleven interval programs, and additional modes like Rescue Mission and Storm Shelter. Both versions require no subscription, have no account needed, and the purchase stays bought forever tied to the user's Apple ID.

To start playing, users simply need an Apple Watch and an existing Apple ID. There is no sign-up, password, or email required to begin. Users choose a mountain, select an interval program, and set a duration of 20, 30, 45, or 60 minutes before the program decides which zones to hold and when.

The game mechanics rely on the Apple Watch reading the user's heart rate every few seconds to determine if they are inside the target zone. If the heart rate is in the band, the avatar climbs and scores; if it drifts out, the mountain stops moving. Scoring stops entirely when the user leaves the zone until they return.

Users can earn streak multipliers that build on top of each other based on how long they hold the zone without a break, up to a maximum of ×3 after one minute. Additionally, being within 3 bpm of dead centre scores 20% more and changes the display from IN ZONE to PERFECT. These two factors stack to multiply the final score.

The free version allows 20 and 30-minute climbs on Grouse Mountain, while the $3.99 Pro version unlocks 45 and 60-minute climbs along with dynamic events like Rockfall, Whiteout, and Altitude Sickness. The Pro version also includes audio cues, haptics, Trail Radio, and high-resolution card exports for sharing.

Each completed climb generates a unique Summit Card that draws the user's heart rate as a mountain silhouette. This card is different for every climb and can be shared directly from the Apple Watch the moment the session finishes.

The app includes eleven different interval programs ranging from Norwegian 4×4 and Tabata to Fartlek and Zone 2. These programs vary in length and determine the specific zones the user will be asked to hold during the climb.

Cardio Command is designed for anyone with an Apple Watch who wants to turn cardio interval training into a gamified experience. It is particularly suited for users who prefer real-time feedback over post-workout rings and want a structured way to stay within their target heart-rate zone.

The Trustburn rating is 4.3 out of 5 from 4 reviews. The feedback is recent as the app is scheduled for release in August 2026, and the reviews reflect the core mechanics of the game.

The app does not require an account, password, or email to play, and there are no ads or session limits in the free version. The one-time purchase is non-consumable, meaning it is kept forever and can be restored on new devices by tapping Restore Purchases.

The business explicitly states it is not a medical device and does not diagnose, treat, or prevent any condition. This compliance detail is stated in the footer of their website.

You can reach Cardio Command by e-mail at support@cardiocommandapp.com.

The official website of Cardio Command is cardiocommandapp.com.